Maharashtra delays enforcement on loose edible oil sales for one year

Chief minister Devendra Fadnavis said Maharashtra will suspend enforcement against loose edible oil sales for a period of one year, after which the law will be strictly applied. During this interval, traders must modify their business practices to meet legal standards, with assistance from the state, including possible grants or subsidies. A joint committee comprising FDA representatives and traders will be formed to propose practical steps and guide the sector through the transition.

Deputy chief minister Sunetra Pawar, revenue minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule, special assistance minister Narhari Zirwal and senior officials attended a meeting with oil vendors at Mantralaya. The FDA commissioner Tukaram Mundhe had earlier cautioned consumers about the risks of unsealed oil and issued a compliance directive. Two committees will also examine infrastructure needs for sellers, manufacturers and repackagers, submitting their recommendations within a month. The government emphasized that the pause aims to balance public health concerns with the livelihoods of traditional vendors.